Game time almost here

Nationwide Arena, which seats 19,500 for basketball, is about half-full as we’re only minutes from tip-off. The UAlbany fans appear to outnumber Virginia followers.

It’s not surprising the house isn’t full, given the 12:15 start and the fact this isn’t exactly a matchup that excites the Columbus community. It’s a less electric atmosphere than the UConn-UAlbany game played last year in prime time before a near-capacity crowd at Wachovia Center in Philadelphia.

The Virginia band performed the national anthem, and then UAlbany huddled on the court before returning to their locker room for last-minute instructions to a huge cheer from their fans.